EAST BELITUNG - Belitung Island is not only known for its beautiful beaches but also for its exceptional culinary delights. As an island region, its culinary specialty lies in the bounty of the sea.
This is what motivated Sulsia to continuously take the initiative to develop her culinary business by utilizing marine products. A resident of RT 03 RW 02 Dusun Kurnia, Kurnia Jaya Village, she began her venture in 2015, producing mackerel fish crackers.
Mackerel fish crackers, locally known as "pletek," are a typical culinary delight of Belitung. Usually enjoyed as a snack or side dish, pletek is also a popular souvenir when visiting Belitung Island.
As time progressed, Sulsia not only produced mackerel fish crackers but also started making other Belitung specialties such as breadfruit chips, cookies, and various other culinary products.
"I started experimenting with making mackerel crackers, and it turned out to continue and be sold in the market until now. Alhamdulillah, it has been smooth until now," said Sulsia.
She mentioned that the culinary products she produces utilize local ingredients such as mackerel and others. Their production is not fixed and depends on orders, but it is consistently ongoing.
"My business utilizes local marine products and is also assisted by relatives. We produce as per demand," she explained.
Currently, she markets her products in Belitung due to challenges in terms of capital. However, she occasionally receives orders from outside Belitung, although on a small scale.
To improve the marketing of her products, she wanted to increase her business capital. It was then that she learned about PT Timah's PUMK program. She seized the opportunity to utilize this loan program to expand her business.
"Alhamdulillah, we are assisted by PT Timah Tbk, and there were no obstacles; everything went smoothly with PT Timah Tbk," she stated.
She admitted that the PUMK capital from PT Timah was used to develop her business, especially for raw materials and other supporting materials.
She hopes that the PUMK program will continue, allowing PT Timah's partners to be assisted until they become independent.
"Alhamdulillah, everything is going well. Our products are placed in the market and some other stores in East Belitung," she explained.
Kartika's products are available in various packaging sizes, starting from 60 grams, 80 grams, 100 grams, and even in kilogram packages.
"So, if you want to buy, you can contact 081949212716. Besides that, our products are also available in the market," she concluded. (*)"
